China for the young at heart
7 Apr 05
Experiences on attending British Council conference in Beijing "Innovative Young Lawyers in a Rapidly Changing Society"
by Kim Leslie
In October of 2004 Suzie Lyons, Philip Simpson and I attended a British Council conference in Beijing, China – an amazing experience!
Suzie works for Cameron McKenna and I work for Digby Brown. We were representing young Scottish solicitors. Philip was representing the Faculty of Advocates.
The conference was entitled “Innovative Young Lawyers in a Rapidly Changing Society”. When asked if I wanted to be a representative at a forum that required me to be “innovative” and “young”, although delighted to be asked, I acknowledged that I would certainly need a double strength latte to kick-start my jetlagged brain into innovation. I would also have to remember to pack my touché éclat miracle concealer if I wanted to radiate a youthful glow. Some hope.
At the forum there were representatives from Scotland, England, Hong Kong and the People’s Republic of China. The forum was a mix of presentations and group discussions and general debate. The representatives were there to learn from the systems employed in each country.
The British Council’s aim was to launch the Young Lawyers On-line Community. China-UK@Law was formally launched at the outset of the two-day forum. It will allow discussions between UK solicitors and solicitors in the PRC, a frank exchange of views and an opportunity to learn about a different legal system.
It is clear that with the onset of globalisation China is a country in a state of rapid change. It was also clear from discussion with the delegates at the forum that they admired our longstanding, yet continually evolving Scottish legal system. I would therefore encourage all young, or young at heart, Scottish solicitors to use the website.
This is an annual forum and if next year you are lucky enough to be selected to attend, then some words of advice. When you see a dead chicken’s head on your plate, try and persuade your neighbour that your squeal was one of delight. And never wear high heeled stilettos in a squat toilet.
Kim Leslie